Trends and insights in cytogenetic research in Brazilian anurans: a scientometric analysis

Abstract

Cytogenetic studies are fundamental for understanding species identification, genetic variation, and chromosomal evolution in anurans, which include frogs, toads, and tree frogs. Despite progress, significant gaps remain in the cytogenetic knowledge of these species, particularly in high-biodiversity regions such as Brazil. We conducted a scientometric study using three major databases, focusing on studies of anurans sampled in Brazil. A total of 163 papers reported data for 243 species. Families with the greatest species richness, including Hylidae and Leptodactylidae, were the most studied, whereas Neblinaphrynidae, Eleutherodactylidae, and Ranidae remain uninvestigated. Physalaemus ephippifer, Leptodactylus pentadactylus, L. fuscus, L. macrosternum, Proceratophrys boiei, and Pithecopus rohdei were the most frequently analyzed species. The Atlantic Forest was the most studied region, while the Pantanal, Cerrado, and Pampa exhibited major knowledge gaps. Sampling efforts were largely regionalized. Investment in new cytogenetic techniques has increased over the past decades, but future efforts should focus on underrepresented species, families, and biomes to fill knowledge gaps, advance understanding of chromosomal evolution, and resolve taxonomic uncertainties in Brazilian anurans.